Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
Hey BF's (Blog Friends)! Welcome to the third installment of Links that Lift Us.
With the strangeness that infuses the year 2020, it's more important than ever to seek out positivity and hope. And when we find these obscured pearls of promise, we must fix them to our souls like sticky notes on a fridge.
Links that Lift Us is my homage to Paul's insightful words In Philippians 4:8-9 (The Message Bible).
Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.
If we want to live the abundant life that Jesus spoke of, we need to heed Paul's words. If we want to be defined by hope and not circumstance, we must cooperate with God in a daily renewal. I pray Links That Lift Us will help you do just that.
So without further ado, here are the photos, articles, ideas, and wisdom that are lifting me up these days.
BLOG
Betsy's ministry is still a well-kept secret, but it won't be for long. Her Tennessee accent, warm smile, and practical homemaking tips make this blog a cozy stopping place for encouragement, rich stories, and inspiration. Check out Betsy's free prayer guide or purchase From the Father's Heart Devotional cards while you're there!
DOG GIF
There's nothing like laughter to lift us up!
COMIC
If this is how you feel in 2020, you're not alone.
For more of Adrienne Hedger's relatable works, check her out here.
FASHION
Fifteen cute, cozy fall outfits that don't involve sweatpants or yoga pants. This inspiration is from Kohl's but feel free to shop your closet; you'll have lots of the pieces already there!
I love that most of these ensembles incorporate long-sleeve shirts as I'm freezing once the temperature drops below 75. One of the best lessons my grandma ever taught me was to pull myself together everyday (although if you're a sweatpants person, have at it!).
MUSIC
Ain't No Grave - Bethel Music and Molly Skaggs
Truth be told, there ain't no grave that'll hold our bodies down. Hallelujah!
BOOKS
I interviewed Liz Laing Thompson last spring and was impressed by her heart and wisdom. At a time when many of us can be governed by emotions rather than guided by self control, this is my non-fiction pick. Check it out here.
Don't let the "Oprah's Book Club" stamp scare you off. This story is for all of us who care about the immigrants in our midst and about those who are seeking asylum from oppressive poverty, drug regimes, and dictatorships. Spoiler alert: Socialism doesn't work. It's no wonder so many still risk life and limb for the hope of making a new home in the land of the free.
STORY
And speaking of refugees, Maximo Alvarez's story is an inspiration!
IMAGE
The French athlete Jean-Baptiste Alaize, who represented France at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio, wears his prosthesis during a training session in Antibes, France, on August 24, 2020. #Valery Hache / AFP / Getty
VERSE
Our trust is not in government or principalities, but in the name of the Lord our God.
FOR MY FRIENDS STRUGGLING WITH INFERTILITY & PREGNANCY LOSS
Have you read my book yet? Buy it here.
TIMELY WORDS OF WISDOM
TV SHOW
A historical fiction girl power show devoid of today's political agenda. Refreshing!
